Anansi, the spider, is one of the most celebrated tricksters in African folklore. Originating among the Akan people of Ghana and spreading throughout West Africa, Anansi is remembered as a cunning character whose cleverness always seems to outweigh his small size.
Over time, these tales traveled with enslaved Africans to the Caribbean and the Americas, where Anansi became a cultural symbol of wit, survival, and resilience. He is mischievous, greedy at times, but endlessly inventive, a spider who can trick kings, animals, and even the gods themselves.
This collection brings together the most famous Anansi folktales of West Africa, showcasing his clever tricks, bold adventures, and the timeless lessons hidden within them.
Featured Anansi Stories
Anansi and Nothing
The tale of two neighbors, Anansi and Nothing. The folktale shows how greed and selfishness often lead to downfall.
Anansi the Blind Fisherman
In his old age, Anansi turns to fishing, but his cunning mind brings more trouble than food.
Tit for Tat: Anansi the Spider Outsmarted by His Son
Even the trickster can be tricked! In this tale, Anansi learns that wit can pass from father to child.
Discover 100+ Ghanaian Folktales and Legends
Why the Moon and the Stars Receive Their Light from the Sun
A beautiful folktale linking Anansi with the cosmos, explaining the relationship between the sun, moon, and stars.
How Beasts and Serpents First Came into the World
An origin tale showing how Anansi’s world filled with dangerous creatures.
The Grinding-Stone That Ground Flour by Itself
Anansi discovers a magical stone, but his greed may cost him more than he gains.
Why Spiders Are Always Found in the Corners of Ceilings
A tale that explains why Anansi’s descendants (spiders) are always seen in the corners of rooms.
How Wisdom Became Human Property
Anansi tries to hoard wisdom for himself, but ends up teaching the world a lesson about sharing knowledge.
How We Got Spider Tales
This story explains how Anansi became the keeper of stories, bringing folktales to humanity.
Anansi and the Talking Melon
With a talking melon, Anansi tricks animals into foolishness — until his scheme backfires.
Anansi and the Pot of Wisdom
The famous story of how Anansi tried to hide all the wisdom of the world, only to learn wisdom grows when it is shared.
Why Anansi Still Matters
Anansi is more than just a trickster. For generations, he has been a symbol of survival, resilience, and cleverness. In African communities and the diaspora, Anansi’s tales were used to teach children life lessons, pass on cultural values, and resist oppression through storytelling.
Today, Anansi’s stories continue to inspire readers of all ages, reminding us that wit and wisdom can be more powerful than brute strength.